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Finnish Lapphund

Loved by 83% of pet parents

A lively, intelligent companion with a gentle spirit and a strong herding instinct. Bred to work in harsh climates, thrives as a playful and affectionate family dog.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Playfulness
Adaptability
Finnish Lapphund dog breed

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

46–52 cm (male)

41–47 cm (female)

WEIGHT

15–24 kg (male)

15–22 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12–15 years

Finnish Lapphund: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Finnish Lapphund

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Finnish Lapphund isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Finnish Lapphund's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

Finnish Lapphunds are friendly, gentle, and alert, known for their even temperament and sociable nature. They usually get along well with people, children, and other animals.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Gentle and sociable with people and dogs

Intelligence

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level

Active breed enjoys regular physical exercise

Playfulness

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability

Adjusts well to various living environments

Finnish Lapphund playing

Strengths

  • Friendly and gentle with children
  • Highly adaptable to various living environments
  • Responsive to consistent positive training methods
  • Thick double coat provides weather protection
  • Generally sociable with other dogs and pets

Challenges

  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Requires regular grooming due to dense coat
  • Can be reserved with strangers initially
  • Needs daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • May bark frequently if not properly trained
Finnish Lapphund with family

Protect your Finnish Lapphund

Finnish Lapphund can develop hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.

Intelligence & exercise needs

Finnish Lapphunds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Quick learner

Overall rating

This breed is intelligent and quick to learn, responding well to positive reinforcement and consistent training. Finnish Lapphunds are eager to please but may display some independent thinking.

Trainable Tasks:

Herding livestock commands
Recall and off-leash control
Scent detection exercises
Agility course navigation
Search and rescue basics
Therapy dog tasks

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

60–75 minutes daily

recommended per day

Finnish Lapphunds have a moderate to high energy level and require daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Activities like walks, play, and training sessions help prevent boredom and maintain their health.

Recommended Activities:

Herding trials participation
Agility competitions
Nose work games
Daily long walks
Socialization outings
Trick training sessions

Is this breed right for you?

Finnish Lapphunds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Finnish Lapphund would fit well in your home.

First-time Owner

Good starter breed

Finnish Lapphunds are friendly, trainable, and responsive to gentle guidance.

Apartment Living

Needs more space

They are energetic and need regular activity beyond what most apartments provide.

Active Lifestyle

Highly suitable

Their stamina and playful nature suit homes with active lifestyles.

Kids

Very family-friendly

Gentle, patient, and affectionate with children, making them a solid family choice.

Multiple Pets

Gets along well

They usually coexist peacefully with other pets due to their social temperament.

Being Left Alone

Prone to loneliness

Finnish Lapphunds may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

Frequently Asked Questions about Finnish Lapphund

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed

Interactive Tools

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